GB-8 - Leading Valley
率谷 - Shuài gǔ
Point Region: Head
GB-8, or 'Shuaigu' (meaning 'Leading Valley'), is a local point located on the side of the head. Its name refers to its position as a 'leading valley' that can be used to address issues related to the head and neck.
As a local point, Shuaigu is primarily used for issues related to the head and neck, such as a headache, dizziness, and a sense of 'stuckness' in the head. It is a go-to point for 'calming' the mind and 'clearing' emotional blockages in the head. By stimulating this point, you can help to restore a sense of peace and tranquility to the mind and body.
Shuaigu acts as a vital access point to the core of the body, providing a direct and effective way to address blockages and restore a sense of comfort and vitality to the upper body. It's a reminder of the power of local points to provide targeted relief and restore a sense of comfort and vitality to the entire body.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Directly above the ear apex, in the depression within the hairline.
How to Locate:
- Locate the highest point of your ear
- Draw an imaginary line straight up from this point
- Feel for the depression in your hairline directly above your ear
- This is GB-8, at the apex level of the ear
- The point is within the hairline area
Primary Functions
Nervous System
- Treats severe migraines and cluster headaches
- Relieves temporal neuralgia
- Calms nervous system hyperactivity
- Improves mental alertness
Eye & Vision System
- Relieves eye pain and orbital pressure
- Treats visual disturbances
- Reduces photophobia
Liver & Gallbladder System
- Clears liver wind and heat
- Promotes emotional stability
- Supports clear judgment
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Epilepsy
- Dizziness
- Migraines
- Nausea
- Vertigo
- Motion sickness
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
GB-8 Protocols
N/A